Land train to be trialled in tourist town

The land train in Knaresborough would follow in the tracks of other similar vehicles in tourist towns such as Weymouth

A land train transporting people around the streets of Knaresborough is set to be trialled during the October half-term.

The vehicles, which are designed to look like a train but are driven on roads, already operate in a number of tourist towns and cities such as Bournemouth, Weymouth and Bridlington.

Knaresborough Town Council said it had wanted to launch a land train in the town for several years but plans were put on hold during the Covid pandemic.

The trial for the land train, which could become a permanent fixture if successful, has been put forward in response to a report claiming there was a lack of connectivity across the hilly terrain of the town.

According to the Local Democracy Reporting Service, the report added that this landscape had made it difficult for tourists to navigate which was reducing footfall and spending in local businesses.

The trial for the train will run for one week from 28 October to 1 November, which covers half term and Halloween, when several events in the town are planned.

North Yorkshire councillors have approved plans for the trial as part of a £15,000 feasibility study.

Members were told that a refurbished second-hand land train was available for purchase and the trial would confirm its suitability.

"The project would lead to increased tourism, improved local transportation options, and enhanced economic activity in the area," a report to the council said.

North Yorkshire Council had previously suggested Knaresborough Town Council would be taking on the project if the trial was successful.

At a meeting on Thursday, the council confirmed this was incorrect and issued an apology.

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